There is nothing called as ‘perfect parenting’ but we can do little things that can help us become a good parent. Read on to find out how you can be a good parent.Good parenting begins at home. The innocence, liveliness and spontaneity of children stir up an emotional connection between the parent and child. Sometimes, there are questions on how to raise a child? Do we act strict with them and show who the boss is?Should we expect our children to fear us? Do we protect them from the big, bad world outside and smother them with love and affection? Or should we just focus on making the child a decent and self-sufficient human being? Parenting is a difficult job, one that requires an emotional connection with the child. Therefore, here are some things to keep in mind when bringing up children.1. Actions Speak Louder than WordsRemember this – your children are always watching you and observing. Do not defend yourself against a sad childhood, but try to face and understand them. Practice what you preach such as washing hands before dinner, doing chores around the house and following a disciplined daily routine.Children also learn to behave by watching, such as helping others, being polite and other social skills. If you have regular domestic fights, your child will grow up to be a cynical person who will not be able to love and trust his partner.2. Keep a Balance between Discipline and LoveHarsh discipline has never done well for anybody. Children who are regularly beaten, slapped or hit are prone to becoming bullies as they do not know any better way to process their hurt and aggression. Such children also go on to use violence to solve disputes in future and may even go on substance abuse to deal with their emotional problems. Instead, look for other methods to discipline that do not involve violence and consequently work better.On the other hand, replacing emotional love with leniency, material possessions and lowered expectations spoil a child. They believe that they would be forgiven for every mistake, and whatever they do is right. Though such a phenomenon is common for young children, it is the parents’ responsibility to teach them empathy, good manners and discipline.3. Be Involved in Your Child’s LifeAs a parent, you are busy in all walks of life. However, your child is your first priority and it is essential for you to be present in her important moments. You may need to rethink and rearrange your priorities. You may even need to sacrifice your own desires for your child. However, you are not supposed to do your child’s homework for her. It is alright to let children make mistakes while learning, and it your duty to teach them the correct method. Make your children feel that they are wanted and loved.4. Treat Your Children with RespectYour children are after all, other human beings. They have their own thoughts and opinions and they must be respected. To earn respect from your children, you have to give them the same treatment. Speak to them politely, and likewise pay attention when they are speaking to you. Respect their opinion and treat them kindly. Try to keep them happy. Encourage them to follow their dreams. Children’s relationship with their parents leads the way for other relationships in their life. They will treat their friends the way their parents treat them.5. Maintain Balance between Independence and RulesRules are important to lead a disciplined life, and your child needs to learn this early in life. You need to manage your child’s behaviour by asking yourself “where is my child’, “what is she doing?� and “who is with her?� Rules will help your child manage herself when she’s older and eventually make her own decisions. Setting limits teaches them self-control while independence gives them a sense of self-direction.All said and done, it is you who knows your child best. Inculcating some basic values of love, hard work and self-control will help her to be a better human being. A child’s upbringing prepares her for the whole life ahead, so the best care must be taken for her development.What are the characteristics of a good parent? How do good parents raise their children? Which guidelines should be followed to be a good parent? Discuss here.